Sometimes a native speaker might be talking too fast. In order to get that person to stop, repeat, and clarify, you’ve learned how to say “pardon”.
The problem is that when you say “pardon” you’re making your English sound terrible. It’s going to be much easier to learn other replacement phrases instead.
You’re probably aware of “excuse me”. Just be sure to cut the first syllable so it sounds like “scuse”. Then, you can use it in combination with one of these phrases:
- What did you say?
- What was that?
To respond in disbelief or shock, you can use the phrase “Say what”.
Example: You got fired from your job– say what? = Am I hearing you right– you got fired? (I can’t believe it!)
If you’re really dead set on using “pardon”, you should extend it to “pardon me” and add another phrase. For instance, “Pardon me, I didn’t catch what you were saying.” Just be aware that sounds more formal (and European).
The Conversation Coach 